Study: "Elderspeak" Can Have Negative Effects

A new study found that CNAs are more likely to use patronizing "elderspeak" when they are familiar with residents, if the resident has dementia or if no one else is around.

The study's authors defined elderspeak as simplified vocabulary or sentence structure, exaggerated intonation and vocal pitch, slowed speech, use of terms of endearment (such as "honey") and collective pronoun usage (such as "we").

The study's authors wrote that "the use of elderspeak may increase resistance to care, threaten self-esteem and well-being, and increase dependency among residents." Rather than relying on elderspeak, the researchers recommended facilities implement training programs designed to improve communication.

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